The Child Employment Regulation 2016 (the Regulation) is subordinate legislation made under the Child Employment Act 2006 (the Act). The Regulation includes provisions authorised by the Act that ensure work performed by children does not interfere with their compulsory schooling (up to the age of 16 years or completion of year 10) and by preventing children performing work that may be harmful to their health or safety or physical, mental, moral or social development.
As the Regulation is subordinate to the Act, its review is limited to the sections contained within the Regulation. The Regulation cannot change provisions, such as purpose and meanings, provided in the Act.
The Regulation is due to expire on the 31 August 2026. Preliminary consultation indicates that the Regulation is still required and is performing as intended to protect working children.
Public consultation period
The public consultation period for the consultation paper (PDF, 749KB) relating to the review of the Child Employment Regulation 2016 ran from 20 February to 20 March 2026.
Written submissions were encouraged from all interested parties.
For further information please contact: irpolicy@oir.qld.gov.au.